Gear Guide 2009: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 1 Tent Review

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmyUc3XT8i0&feature=share&list=UUeWKaLsk9Z6TwWgPv3VGPnA

I just used it to bike tour across Europe during the rainiest summer in over 100 years. Dry the whole time. Awesome tent.

I have used this tent at 11,500 feet for base camp on many 14,000-foot mountains. Big Agnes designed a very lightweight tent with good ventilation if properly staked-out. I experienced no condensation puddling, only a few contact drops in early morning on the ceiling walls. On entry and exit, a few drops of rain will fall into the tent from the rainfly due to the angle of the opening. I am 6'2" which makes sitting-up difficult. However, I wanted the lightest tent possible with room to stash my gear inside. I get a good night of sleep in the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL-1, with a full-size Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Sleeping Pad.

It is an excellent tent!Lighter does not mean less quality.The thread count on this tent makes this tent just as durable as one that has heavier material.Well designed product,love how light it is.Double wall tents are the way to go.

The best part about this tent is the light weight. Last summer in Washington North Cascades and cool nights in northern California, it developed condensation to levels that were excessive. I think this is due to silnylon. Silnylon seems to have a good surface to collect moisture. I've had 2 other 1-person tents of regular nylon and don't remember that level of condensation. I also don't like how the side walls ride up in the middle. But, minimizing fabric is one reason the tent it light. There's always sacrifices and trade-offs to engineer a tent for lower weight. The construction quality is excellent. I'm 5'11" and think this tent is roomy considering its class. Due to condensation, this tent is best suited for warm, breezy climates especially bugs are a problem.

In regard to condensation, I can say that it is about average. So I would rate it a 6 after using it three times. The material is thin, even though durable. I dont think it is a strong feature in the tent because there are no vents, yet I find the weight and room it offers is worth it. I am 5'7" 155 lbs so I can call it roomy.

Hey everyone... I need a tad bit more information, can anyone let me know what they thought of the condensation issue? Is there one? As you can see, my primary stompin grounds is FL, and Condensation happens!

On a scale of 1 (waterfall, puddle in the morning) - 10 (Bone Dry 100% of the time) How would you rate this tent??

Thanks!